Allegorische voorstelling van Maria de' Medici en de relatie tot haar zoon Lodewijk XIII 1637

Cornelis Galle I created this print, Allegorical Representation of Maria de' Medici and her Relationship with her Son Louis XIII, using engraving techniques. It speaks to the complex relationship between powerful figures and the construction of political narratives. Made in the Dutch Republic, the image employs classical allegories to comment on the French court. We see the Queen Mother, Maria de' Medici, enthroned, flanked by symbols of power and virtue. The inscription indicates that the print was made "for the defense of the Queen Mother," suggesting it was commissioned to bolster her image during a time of political tension with her son, Louis XIII. The inclusion of Latin phrases and symbolic figures like the eagles and lions indicates an appeal to erudite viewers familiar with classical imagery. The Rijksmuseum, as an institution, plays a role in preserving and interpreting such works. We can research the print's historical context and provenance to fully understand its role in the power dynamics of 17th-century Europe.